(A)pplied Work-Based Learning Experience

What was it?

During my time at both Old Dominion University (ODU) and in the LeADERS program I worked at the ODU IT Help Desk as a student technician, eventually becoming a lead. By December of 2025 I had been onboarded as an hourly employee working part-time at the Help Desk, rather than as a student worker. My responsibilities included assisting students, faculty, and staff with a variety of technical issues on various platforms. Additionally, within this time I also participated in the CYSE 368 Cybersecurity Internship course.

How it Applies to Cybersecurity

Working at the Help Desk provided me with invaluable experience in customer service, technical troubleshooting, and understanding the IT infrastructure of a large organization like ODU. These skills are directly relevant to my career in cybersecurity, as they have given me a solid foundation in IT operations and user support. Furthermore, the internship course allowed me to apply cybersecurity principles in a real-world setting, enhancing my practical knowledge and skills in the field.

Why it is important?

Gaining hands-on experience through work-based learning is crucial for anyone pursuing a career in cybersecurity. It allows students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their professional lives. Additionally, understanding the user perspective and IT support processes is essential for effective cybersecurity practices, as it helps professionals design better security measures that consider user behavior and needs.

Reflection

My time at the ODU IT Help Desk and participation in the CYSE 368 internship course have been instrumental in my development as a cybersecurity professional. These experiences have not only enhanced my technical skills but also improved my communication and problem-solving abilities. I have learned the importance of communication, empathy, and patience (three key soft skills) when dealing with users, which is a critical aspect of cybersecurity that is often overlooked. Overall, this applied work-based learning experience has solidified my passion for cybersecurity and has equipped me with the tools I need to succeed in my future career.

It also assisted in my development and identification of possible improvements within my elective experience, my civic engagement project.

Work Samples

All course work can be found here. This includes four reflection assignments: 3 journal entries and a final reflection paper. Each journal entry reflects on different aspects of my internship experience, while the final reflection paper summarizes my overall learning and growth throughout the course.

Showcasing Knowledge and Skills

Through this experience, I have been able to demonstrate my ability to apply cybersecurity concepts in a practical setting, effectively communicate technical information to non-technical users, and work collaboratively within a team. The work samples provided showcase my growth in these areas and highlight my commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field of cybersecurity.

Contribution to Professional Practice

As I have reflected on my experiences at the ODU IT Help Desk and in the CYSE 368 internship course, I have come to appreciate the value of hands-on learning and real-world application of cybersecurity principles. The ability to both execute and reflect on my actions showcases and assists me in identifying areas for growth and improvement as a professional.